The Memphis Grizzlies didn’t have a good start in the 2023–24 NBA season. In five games, the team didn’t register a single win. While the team finished in the top three of the Western Conference the past two seasons, things are looking tough for them this year. Ja Morant’s suspension is also playing a part in it. This week, the Grizzlies signed veteran Bismack Biyombo to come off the bench in hopes of turning around the season. While Bismack is not expected to single-handedly lead the team, he should feel some gaps left by Steven Adams. Now let’s have a look at a few reasons why the Grizzlies have struggled so far in the season.
Steven Adams is not available this season
Steven Adams suffered a PCL injury last season, leaving both him and the team hopeful that he could rehabilitate without surgery. Unfortunately, this off-season, Adam struggled while training and was forced to undergo surgery. So the team will be forced to play without their veteran player this season. Although they signed Biyombo, it is no secret that he will fall short of Adams. The return of Ja Morant will provide good strength for the team, but the team still has to continue without Adams this season.
Lack of strong Defense
The Grizzlies made a major acquisition this offseason in the form of Marcus Smart. Although the former Defensive Player of the Year brings strong defense to the team, many others lack his defensive ability. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Jaren Jackson Jr., has been able to solidify the team’s defense, but on the perimeter, the team has continued to struggle. Currently, they have the worst defensive rating of any NBA team.
Injuries of Many Players
The team already started the season without Ja Morant, but in addition, Brandon Clarke is also not available because he suffered an Achilles injury in March and currently it is unknown when he will return. In another case, Santi Aldama is currently dealing with an ankle injury that will keep him out of the team’s upcoming game against the Portland Trail Blazers. Similarly, in Derrick Rose’s case, he will be out for the next week as he is dealing with left knee pain.
Ja Morant’s suspension
The biggest reason behind the team’s struggle this season has been the absence of Ja Morant. After flashing a gun on Instagram live this summer, Morant was issued a 25-game suspension by the league. The Grizzlies will have to struggle to match the production of Morant. His return will provide much needed energy to the team, but in the next 20 matches, they have to compete without him.
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